The advantages and disadvantages of dentures and implants

If you’re looking to replace missing teeth, you’ll need to choose between dentures and implants. While dentures are the traditional solution to tooth loss, dental implants are a newer (but still well-established) technology. Consulting with your dentist at the Eastgate Dental Centre in Hamilton and weighing the pros and cons of each option will help you make an informed decision as to which is the best fit for you.

Dentures versus implants

Before choosing between dentures and dental implants, it’s important to understand what each dental appliance involves. Dentures—the device your grandparents likely got if they needed to replace their missing teeth—are moulded to fit to the unique contours of your mouth and are secured to your gum line with a temporary adhesive. Typically, you take them out each night and soak them in a cleaning solution.

Dental implants are the more permanent option, as they consist of a metal post covered by either a crown or a bridge. The metal post acts as a prosthetic tooth root that’s surgically affixed to your jawbone. This prevents the bone resorption that can occur when you have a number of missing teeth—a perk that dentures can’t provide.

Jaw strengthIf your jaw is too weak to bear the weight of dental implants, dentures are the right choice for you. However, since they’re designed to mimic natural teeth and thereby activate your jawbone, implants are better at preventing your jawline from sagging. If you’re unsure which route is best for your jaw, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Hamilton dentist at Eastgate Dental Care for advice.

ComfortWhile implants look and feel almost exactly like natural teeth and are permanently held in place with a post, dentures are secured with an adhesive. This means that with dentures you risk your teeth slipping and potentially falling out from time to time. Due to this, you’ll find that dental implants are the more comfortable of the two options. However, the process for having them installed is far more involved than the process for get a denture made.

Lifespan and costImplants are more durable than dentures and can last for decades or even a full lifetime. However, they’re also the more expensive option. Dentures, on the other hand, are cheaper, but they must be replaced every five years or so. It’s up to you to determine which is the best fit for your budget.

Book an appointment with a Stoney Creek dentist at Eastgate Dental CareIf you find yourself in need of dental implants or dentures, Eastgate Dental Care in Hamilton is here to help. We’ll have you smiling brightly and with confidence again in no time! Contact us here to make an appointment at our Stoney Creek dental clinic today.